BREAKING NEWS

Bangladesh cricketers were nearly victims

By Associated Press and David K. Li with NBC News World News&bullet;
last updated:
15/03/2019

President of Bangladesh Cricket Board Nazmul Hassan Papon, center, speaks during a press conference on the status of the country's cricket team after Friday's mass shootings in New Zealand, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on March 15, 2019.
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"Alhamdulillah Allah save us today while shooting in Christchurch in the mosque," Rahim tweeted. "We (were) extremely lucky ... never want to see this things happen again ... pray for us."

The team decided to cut short its tour of New Zealand, canceling matches to go home.

"On behalf of New Zealand Cricket heartfelt condolences to those affected," New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said. "I've spoken to my counterpart at Bangladesh cricket — we agree it's inappropriate to play cricket at this time. Both teams are deeply affected."

President of Bangladesh Cricket Board Nazmul Hassan Papon, center, speaks during a press conference on the status of the country\'s cricket team after Friday\'s mass shootings in New Zealand, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on March 15, 2019.Al-Emrun Garjon

International Cricket Council chief executive David Richardson said the sport's governing body "fully supports the decision to cancel the test match."

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," Richardson said. "Both teams, staff and match officials are safe."